Judicial inquiry now the only option
EDMONTON, AB (October 27, 2011): An independent judicial inquiry into allegations of intimidation and silencing of health care professionals is now the only way to restore confidence in Alberta’s health care system, the Wildrose Caucus said today.
Earlier today, after the Health Quality Council of Alberta released an interim report on its review of the health system, HQCA Chief Executive Officer Dr. John Cowell said on the Rutherford Show that the HQCA’s review of the allegations did not hear from all witnesses because some individuals did not want to be interviewed.
“They feel constrained because of contract relationships they have. Also because of the situation, they really want it behind them,” Cowell said, when asked why some individuals did not want to be a part of the HQCA review.
Wildrose Leader Danielle Smith said Premier Alison Redford must immediately deliver on her promise to call a judicial inquiry, which is now the only mechanism available to compel testimony from all sources and protect those individuals from repercussions.
“Ms. Redford is obviously mistaken if she thinks this Health Quality Council review is enough,” Smith said. “Even Dr. Cowell admits the HQCA is so far unable to get the full picture. Ms. Redford must deliver on her promise of a judicial inquiry now if we are going to get to the bottom of this situation.”
During the PC leadership race, Redford explicitly promised a judicial inquiry, telling CBC radio on June 7, “The strength of a judicial inquiry is that a judge would chair it and a judge has the powers of a judge to be able to compel witnesses to appear to provide evidence, to provide protection to the system and to ensure that all information is brought forward in a way that’s independent and can be assessed independently and an independent and public report be provided.”
Wildrose Health Critic Heather Forsyth said health professionals who have been reluctant to talk to the HQCA must be protected by a judicial inquiry.
“This is now the only option available,” Forsyth said. “Our doctors, nurses and other health care professionals work incredibly hard under difficult circumstances and are the glue holding a broken health care system together. They must be made to feel safe and secure in telling the true story about the state of our health care system.”
The Wildrose Caucus stands for free enterprise, less government, increased personal freedom and democracy.
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For further information or to arrange an interview, media are invited to contact:
Evan Menzies
Communications Assistant, Wildrose Caucus
Ph: 780-904-4913